KEY POINTS

  • Oliver signs a special deal with the Los Angeles Lakers to play in the G-League
  • He could be a backup in case someone gets injured
  • Oliver may get inspiration from Kendrick Nunn and Danny Green

The Los Angeles Lakers have an open roster spot that has yet to be officially filled up.

However, it appears the franchise has used a different approach when they reportedly signed former Houston Rockets winger Cameron Oliver.

According to sources cited by Jovan Buha of The Athletic, the 25-year-old player was signed to an Exhibit 10 deal with the Lakers.

His name hardly rings a bell and such could be a reason why he will have to prove his worth first via the G-League route.

Oliver is not the guy that will fill up an open roster spot with the Lakers. He could be called up in the future, assuming he proves that he can be of help to head coach Frank Vogel.

It appears to be a long road to the NBA although it is better than sitting around and hoping to get a callup from other teams.

So far, the 6-foot-8 forward has officially played in only four NBA games. This was with the Rockets during the 2020-21 NBA wars.

The California native averaged 10.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 21.8 minutes of action with the Rockets.

Although it may not be much, a stint with the South Bay Lakers, for now, could become beneficial if he can impress the main coaching staff.

With the roster of the Lakers not spared from criticism because most players are at a prime age, Oliver could get a chance to fill in for anyone who may get injured once the 2021-22 NBA season starts.

It is a long shot, but perhaps a good outlook for the Nevada college product.

Cameron Oliver #25 of the Houston Rockets
Cameron Oliver #25 of the Houston Rockets Getty Images | Bob Levey

There have been several names who got into the NBA via the G-League path. That list includes other new Lakers face in Kendrick Nunn, former player Quinn Cook and Danny Green.

Oliver may have something more to give. If he performs well and can pad his production, he could get a chance to join LeBron James and company or some other team in need of backup players.